Neurodivergent children are often described as having many “challenging behaviors”. These interactions are frequently labeled as “attention seeking” or the child is viewed as being “defiant” or “throwing a tantrum”. Viewing children and experiences from this perspective sets adults up for providing ‘punishment’ or ‘correction’ over understanding and empathy. We present an alternative model for understanding these interactions based on unmet needs.
We explore common sources for ‘challenging behaviors’: anxiety, trauma history (including more subtle types of trauma), chronic pain, sensory overwhelm, and stress. And provide guided support through identifying these sources through in-depth scenarios.
Finally, learn co-regulation strategies, relaxation strategies and other techniques to help parents, clinicians, teachers, and students empathetically and compassionately support children.